Jalapeño Vodka
This spicy jalapeno vodka will add a fiery kick to your cocktail repertoire. Infusing vodka with fresh jalapenos creates a bold, vibrant spirit perfect for crafting unique and memorable drinks. Whether you’re a fan of spicy cocktails or looking to experiment with new flavors, this homemade jalapeno vodka is guaranteed to impress your guests.
Look at that green-hued liquor! Stunning, no?
My niece Elizabeth, and my love for infused alcohol, inspired me to make this jalapeno infused vodka recipe. Elizabeth always has a supply on hand and uses this special infusion when making dirty, spicy martinis and jalapeno lemonade cocktails. Both of these drinks are coming soon to Dishes Delish, so stay tuned.
Two things I love about this vodka infusion are the spicy kick you get from the jalapenos and its distinctive taste. This vodka would be awesome in a spicy bloody Mary.
We are a participant in Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. #CommisionsEarned. You can read my disclosure here.
Helpful
Tips
- Opt for a good-quality vodka to ensure a smooth and flavorful infusion.
- The vodka will take on the characteristics of the jalapenos, so using fresh, ripe jalapenos is essential.
- The spiciness of the jalapeno vodka will depend on the number of jalapenos used and whether or not the seeds and membranes are included. For a milder infusion, remove the seeds and membranes before slicing the jalapenos. For extra heat, leave them intact or add more jalapenos.
- To ensure even infusion and consistent flavor, slice the jalapenos into thin rounds. Removing the seeds and membranes will help control the heat level while allowing the flavor of the jalapenos to infuse into the vodka.
- The length of time for infusion depends on personal preference and desired spiciness. Generally, jalapeno vodka can be ready to use within 24 to 48 hours. Taste the infusion periodically and remove the jalapenos once the desired flavor is achieved to prevent the vodka from becoming too spicy. I usually sample with a sip from a one-ounce shot glass.
- If you love ‘spicy,’ increase the heat by leaving some or all of the seeds in the jalapeno strips and infusing the vodka longer – up to five days. If you don’t like spicy drinks or food, remove all the seeds and taste after one day to see if it is to your liking. Add an extra day if it is too mild.
- Once the infusion is complete, strain out the sliced jalapeño pepper and transfer the flavored vodka to a clean, airtight container. There is no need to store it in the refrigerator. But I would store it in a cool, dark place to maintain its freshness and flavor.
- Jalapeno vodka adds a unique and spicy twist to cocktails. Try it in classic drinks like a spicy margarita or a bloody Mary, or get creative and invent your own jalapeno-infused cocktails.
How to make jalapeno vodka
Pre-step
Wash a 32 ounce glass jar (or whatever size you prefer) with hot, soapy water. Dry completely and set aside.
Step one
Gather the ingredients – vodka and jalapeños.
Step two
Wash the jalapenos, then take a sharp knife and and cut off the stems. Next, cut the jalapeno peppers in strips, remove the seeds, and cut the strips in half. Place the strips in the clean jar.
Step three
Pour vodka into the jar. I usually don’t measure it. I just pour until the liquid is about half an inch from the part of the jar with the ridges for the cap. See below. (It was about 3 cups).
Step four
Cap the jar and give it a brisk shake.
Step five
Set the jar either in the refrigerator or on the counter for one to five days. Shake twice a day.
If you know you like the spice of your food on the mild side, you can start tasting the vodka after the first day. If you like spicy, start tasting after three days. I let mine rest on the counter for five full days! I say bring on the spice! (A)
Step six
Take a cheesecloth and place it in a mesh strainer. Place the strainer in a large glass bowl. Empty the contents of the jar into the strainer. Toss the jalapeno slices in the compost or garbage.
Transfer the jalapeno vodka into a clean, appropriate-sized bottle.
Here is the vodka poured into a measuring glass.
I hope you enjoyed this jalapeno vodka recipe! I know I do.
Other vodka infusions
And as always, may all your dishes/drinks be delish.
If you’ve tried this recipe, I’d love to know your thoughts in the comments below. I love hearing from you! You can also FOLLOW ME on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, and PINTEREST to see more of my delicious food and delightful cocktails!
Jalapeño Vodka
Ingredients
- 2 jalepeño peppers (or as many as you want, depending how spicy you want)
- 3 cups vodka (I usually don't measure, I just pour it in the jar until there is 1/2 of an inch between the part of the jar that you screw the lid on)
Instructions
- Wash the jar with hot and soapy water. Dry thoroughly.
- Wash the jalapenos. Take the sharp knife and cut off the stems. Next, cut the jalapenos into strips and then in half. Remove as much of the ribs and seeds as you like – (that's where most of the heat is from). Add the strips to the jar.2 jalepeño peppers
- Pour the vodka in the jar until it is 1/2 inch from the part that you will screw the lid on.3 cups vodka
- Screw the lid on the jar and give the concoction a good shake. Place it on the counter or in the refrigerator. You will be shaking the jar two times a day. I shake it at breakfast time and after dinner.
- After the infusion time, line a strainer with cheesecloth. Place the strainer in a large bowl—it should be smaller than the strainer, though. Pour the contents of the jar into the strainer. Let the vodka strain through the cheesecloth. Sometimes, I lift the cheesecloth and give the contents a squeeze to get all the liquid out, but I didn't with this infusion.
- Pour the jalapeno vodka in an appropriate sized clean bottle. Perhaps make a cocktail.
- Sip, smile, and enjoy.
See all my favorite tools and gift ideas at my Amazon Store page!Check out Elaine’s Amazon Store!Notes
Helpful tips
- Opt for a good-quality vodka to ensure a smooth and flavorful infusion.
- The vodka will take on the characteristics of the jalapenos, so using fresh, ripe jalapenos is essential.
- The spiciness of the jalapeno vodka will depend on the number of jalapenos used and whether or not the seeds and membranes are included. For a milder infusion, remove the seeds and membranes before slicing the jalapenos. For extra heat, leave them intact or add more jalapenos.
- To ensure even infusion and consistent flavor, slice the jalapenos into thin rounds. Removing the seeds and membranes will help control the heat level while allowing the flavor of the jalapenos to infuse into the vodka.
- The length of time for infusion depends on personal preference and desired spiciness. Generally, jalapeno vodka can be ready to use within 24 to 48 hours. Taste the infusion periodically and remove the jalapenos once the desired flavor is achieved to prevent the vodka from becoming too spicy. I usually sample with a sip from a one-ounce shot glass.
- If you love ‘spicy,’ increase the heat by leaving some or all of the seeds in the jalapeno strips and infusing the vodka longer – up to five days. If you don’t like spicy drinks or food, remove all the seeds and taste after one day to see if it is to your liking. Add an extra day if it is too mild.
- Once the infusion is complete, strain out the sliced jalapeño pepper and transfer the flavored vodka to a clean, airtight container. There is no need to store it in the refrigerator. But I would store it in a cool, dark place to maintain its freshness and flavor.
- Jalapeno vodka adds a unique and spicy twist to cocktails. Try it in classic drinks like a spicy margarita or a bloody Mary, or get creative and invent your own jalapeno-infused cocktails.
Nutrition
From lighting up stages with her BA in theater to food journalist, Elaine Benoit's journey is a testament to passion's transformative power. As the CEO of Dishes Delish, she offers a blend of healthy, comforting recipes and exquisitely crafted cocktails. Beyond the kitchen, Elaine voiced her culinary adventures on her podcast, "Dishing," and co-owns Food Blogger Help, extending her expertise to guide budding food bloggers to success. Whether it's for a heartwarming dish or insights into food blogging, Elaine's diverse experiences make her a beacon in the culinary digital landscape.
If you like spicy food, this infused vodka will be a hit. What a fun way to serve a spicy drink. This will be great for parties.
Thanks so much, Gloria!
We make a lot of cocktails and love to spice it up! This recipe was super easy and was the perfect amount of jalapeno flavor. Thanks!
I’m glad you enjoyed it, Lauren. Thanks for your comment.
I have this Jalapeño Vodka going and I can’t wait to use it in my summer cocktails . This is a super easy recipe to follow , Thanks for a great recipe .
You’re welcome, Deborah. Thank you, and I hope you enjoy it.
I am not big on anything spicy, but my best friend loves ALL the spice. 🙂 I will have to make this for her soon.
Hubby isn’t into spicy either, so more for me! Hehe. Thanks, Carrie. I hope she enjoys it.
I made this to go in my Bloody Marys. It turned out fantastic! We loved the flavor combination.
I’m so happy to hear that, Katie! Thank you for coming back and commenting.
I love spicy drinks and this one seems really flavorful and bold. Will definitely have to try.
Thanks, Moop.
I love vodka and jalapenos, so this is perfect! I made a bottle this weekend and I cannot wait to use it to make a spicy bloody mary!!
I hope you enjoy it when you do, LaKita.
I’ve made jalapeno infused tequila before but never vodka, its so good! I can see this becoming a huge hit for cocktails in our family!
Thanks, Veronika! I love it and use it often.
Ohhh my gosh. This is mind blowing! I can’t believe I’ve never tried infusing vodka before. My brain is going crazy thinking of allllll the spicy cocktails I’m going to make.
I know, right? I felt like a kid in a candy store! Hehe. Thanks Jordan.
Whoop whoop, I love spicy, but a spicy drink I’ve not had yet. I’m definitely ,definitely making this, wow, I can’t wait to have it and I do happen to have jalapeños, quite a few in fact so here we go!! Let’s get this genius drink materialized.
Haha, Ramona! I think you’ll love it. Thank you.